The Official Premier Acoustics Owners thread

[jaejw1]

Originally Posted by aramis109

Wow, you wasted no time.

Watched "Taken" last night. Pretty good use of the sub. Not overpowering, but definitely strong and there- especially in the shooting and explosions department. Now that it's warmer, my windows are actually shaking at some of the bass. My wife goes, "What's wrong with the speakers?" I laughed and said, "It's not the speakers, baby, it's the house!" with this big grin on my face.



...then she started insisting I turn it down.

well i just bought bugs life on bluray today.. so i will be watching out for detailed info..

[jaejw1]

gonna watch bugs life with my dual subs

[seakle81]

This is my first post and with it I am in the market for the PA-120. However, my existing system is a Bose Acoustimass 10 Series IV. I am prepared to get an onslaught of negative replies, but I am looking for some help. Here is my dilemma: I cannot afford to get a new set of speakers, nor have the room for larger systems at the moment. Also, I currently have a Panasonic SA-XR700 receiver. Five speaker channels + the LFE out on the receiver all hook up to the Acoustimass module and then out to the speakers. Now, how can I incorporate the new powered sub into this system? Here is a list of options:

1) Use an RCA-Y adapter on the LFE out and connect both the sub and Acoustimass to it.
2) Don't use the LFE connection on the Bose system at all and just send the signal to the powered sub.
-or-
3) Run the LFE connection to the sub and then use the line out on the sub to connect to the Acoustimass.

Now here comes the real kicker...what should the settings be on the receiver? Bose suggests that all speakers be set to large and the "sub" set to on with a frequency set to 80Hz. I don't want the Acoustimass and the PA-120 to be canceling each other out. I also want the best frequency range covered here.

Thanks in advance for your help. Now please go easy on me

[jaejw1]

just finished watching bugs life,,,,, a second time this time using the second sub

rcvr swdr setting
-5dB for movies
-10dB for music

with my 75dB reference set with rcvr volume at -16dB I normally watch my movies with the rcvr volume at -30dB....

watched bugs life
first time with rcvr volume at -30dB... everything sounded good..no problems at all

second time with dual subs


same rcvr volume BUT had to reduce swfr volume down to -10dB... and still low bass was more evident thanthe single sub at -5dB....

more tests to follow...

I UPDATED MY GALLERY.. SHOWING THE DUAL SUBS

[aramis109]

Originally Posted by seakle81

This is my first post and with it I am in the market for the PA-120. However, my existing system is a Bose Acoustimass 10 Series IV. I am prepared to get an onslaught of negative replies, but I am looking for some help. Here is my dilemma: I cannot afford to get a new set of speakers, nor have the room for larger systems at the moment. Also, I currently have a Panasonic SA-XR700 receiver. Five speaker channels + the LFE out on the receiver all hook up to the Acoustimass module and then out to the speakers. Now, how can I incorporate the new powered sub into this system? Here is a list of options:

1) Use an RCA-Y adapter on the LFE out and connect both the sub and Acoustimass to it.
2) Don't use the LFE connection on the Bose system at all and just send the signal to the powered sub.
-or-
3) Run the LFE connection to the sub and then use the line out on the sub to connect to the Acoustimass.

Now here comes the real kicker...what should the settings be on the receiver? Bose suggests that all speakers be set to large and the "sub" set to on with a frequency set to 80Hz. I don't want the Acoustimass and the PA-120 to be canceling each other out. I also want the best frequency range covered here.

Thanks in advance for your help. Now please go easy on me

There's no real good answer cuz at some point you're going to have to hook those little speakers directly to the receiver and set up a crossover. I'd guess around 120hz. I would try doing that and try using the PA-120 with it and not use the Acoustimass sub at all. I have to admit though I've never used one of those setups to know. Maybe Big Daddy or Driver King could help you more- they're both more familiar with the Acoustimass module than I am. Try dropping them a PM if they don't respond here.

[seakle81]

Originally Posted by aramis109

There's no real good answer cuz at some point you're going to have to hook those little speakers directly to the receiver and set up a crossover. I'd guess around 120hz. I would try doing that and try using the PA-120 with it and not use the Acoustimass sub at all. I have to admit though I've never used one of those setups to know. Maybe Big Daddy or Driver King could help you more- they're both more familiar with the Acoustimass module than I am. Try dropping them a PM if they don't respond here.

Well, I ended up calling Bose directly. Here is what they suggested:

1) Do not hook up the LFE connection to both the Acoustimass and PA-120. Only the powered sub should be hooked up.
2) Still run all of the speakers from the Acoustimass. Set all speakers to Large.
3) Set sub to 80 Hz on the receiver. Turn the crossover frequency on the sub to as high as it can go (I think it is around 200 Hz).
4) Place the Acoustimass and the PA-120 right next to each other.

Does this sound reasonable? My Acoustimass currently sits in a corner with the output facing the wall for more bass effect. I am considering rotating it 90degs so that the output faces the seating area.

Thanks again for all your help.

[Driver_King]

That sounds about right. I've never done any dual setups with a sub and Acoustimass module before. You should definitely upgrade your receiver and speakers though...

[Scott_Summers]

So uhm...Aramis mentioned beginning of the thread that the only downside to the PA-120 is the power cord. Does anyone have an estimate on how long the cord is? I need to know so I can see if the power cord will reach the surge protector. Planning on moving some things around the livingroom so the sub will be placed somewhere than what I have now on my HT gallery.

[jaejw1]

Originally Posted by Scott_Summers

So uhm...Aramis mentioned beginning of the thread that the only downside to the PA-120 is the power cord. Does anyone have an estimate on how long the cord is? I need to know so I can see if the power cord will reach the surge protector. Planning on moving some things around the livingroom so the sub will be placed somewhere than what I have now on my HT gallery.

i will take a wild guess and say 3ft... but im sure im wrong... i dint have any problems with mine..

[jaejw1]

had my family over yesterday.. for steaks and chicken... and was watching transformers..

now i normally listen to my movies with the rcvr volume at -30db.. yesterday i had it at -25db.. and oh man... with everyone i the living room.. i was hearing very low freq bass notes i didnt hear before.. simply incredible..

[DonRSD]

Originally Posted by aramis109

Wow, you wasted no time.

Watched "Taken" last night. Pretty good use of the sub. Not overpowering, but definitely strong and there- especially in the shooting and explosions department. Now that it's warmer, my windows are actually shaking at some of the bass. My wife goes, "What's wrong with the speakers?" I laughed and said, "It's not the speakers, baby, it's the house!" with this big grin on my face.



...then she started insisting I turn it down.

thats a funny post

after looking at the AA then PA threads.....i think i may get a PA120 sub

[aramis109]

Originally Posted by DonRSD

thats a funny post

after looking at the AA then PA threads.....i think i may get a PA120 sub

I see you found the thread. I was just getting ready to reply to your PM.

Yeah, I'd guess the cord is around 3-4ft. I can measure it tonight if I remember to do so. I just want people to be prepared. I originally was running a 1:1 extension cord to the APC, but now I don't need it since I have an outlet close at hand for the surge protector I'm using it with.

Overall, I continue to have no issues with this sub. I'd love to get a 2nd one but just don't have the room for it in my current setup. I'm sure it'd improve the sound but honestly... I'm very happy with it now. Even when comparing it to the local high-end theater I feel it does a great job for the space.

I think the biggest thing about the AA is the quality of the build- there are enough people getting damaged subs that I sometimes hesitate to recommend it, even with BD's approval. Also- no offense, but I think the PA-120 has it on style hands-down (especially the black).

Overall I don't think there's a better "budget" purchase in this price range.

[DonRSD]

Originally Posted by aramis109

I see you found the thread. I was just getting ready to reply to your PM.

Yeah, I'd guess the cord is around 3-4ft. I can measure it tonight if I remember to do so. I just want people to be prepared. I originally was running a 1:1 extension cord to the APC, but now I don't need it since I have an outlet close at hand for the surge protector I'm using it with.

Overall, I continue to have no issues with this sub. I'd love to get a 2nd one but just don't have the room for it in my current setup. I'm sure it'd improve the sound but honestly... I'm very happy with it now. Even when comparing it to the local high-end theater I feel it does a great job for the space.

I think the biggest thing about the AA is the quality of the build- there are enough people getting damaged subs that I sometimes hesitate to recommend it, even with BD's approval. Also- no offense, but I think the PA-120 has it on style hands-down (especially the black).

Overall I don't think there's a better "budget" purchase in this price range.

i completly agree with you

the AA has a 600 watt amp/300 RMS
what does the PA 120 have as far as power & rms power?

[aramis109]

Originally Posted by DonRSD

i completly agree with you

the AA has a 600 watt amp/300 RMS
what does the PA 120 have as far as power & rms power?

LOL Click on the link I sent you, you lazyass.

http://www.premieracoustic.com/buyno...red+Subwoofers

Specifications:

12" Active Subwoofer

Sensitivity: 85DB 1 Watt 1 Meter

Ohms: :8 Ohms

Frequency Responses: 24HZ-180HZ

Wattage: 200 (rms) - 650 Watts(peak power)

Product Size: 18.7" x 14.3" x 17.1" (H X W X D )

Shipping Size: 21.7" x 22.7: x 17.7" (H X W X D )

Weight: 60 pounds each

Warranty: 5 Year Warranty On Woofer, 2 Year On Amplifier

Color: Cherry or Black

Wattage can be deceiving, especially with a sub as the enclosure plays a very big role. I don't know the AA sub, but I do know that I've yet to go wanting for power with the PA-120.

[DonRSD]

Originally Posted by aramis109

LOL Click on the link I sent you, you lazyass.

http://www.premieracoustic.com/buyno...red+Subwoofers



Wattage can be deceiving, especially with a sub as the enclosure plays a very big role. I don't know the AA sub, but I do know that I've yet to go wanting for power with the PA-120.

the AA sub has

Efficiency / Sensitivity: 99dB @ 1 watt/1 meter
400 Watts Nominal RMS to 800 Watts Maximum
Rear Slotted Bass Port

Frequency Response: 20Hz-250Hz

Cabinet Finish: Black
Designed and Engineered in USA
Certified High Definition
Power Output:
400 Watts Nominal RMS to 800 Watts Maximum
Woofer: 12 Inch Front-Firing Long Throw Driver
Complex Fiberglass Cone
Aluminum Voice Coil Former
Parabolic RFL Voice Coil
CEA Cooling Technology
Vented and Extended Pole Piece
Low Carbon Top and Bottom Plate
Rear Slotted Bass Port
Frequency Response: 20Hz-250Hz
Bass Level / Gain Control
Line-Level and Speaker-Level Inputs
Line-Level and Speaker-Level Outputs for Adding Additional Subwoofers
Variable Low Pass Frequency Crossover: 40Hz-130Hz
Efficiency / Sensitivity: 99dB @ 1 watt/1 meter
Built-in Digital Drive High Efficiency Amplifier
Auto-On Signal Sensing Switch
Cabinet Design: Advanced RFL Bass Reflex
Cabinet Material: High-Density MDF
Grilles are Included
Dimensions (W x D x H): 14.9 x 15.5 x 17.4 Inches

3 Year Parts and Labor Warranty
Shipping Weight: 47 lbs
Available in 3 Different Finishes (Light Maple, Cherry, or Black)
Suggested Retail Price: $699.99

[aramis109]

Going by specs alone, it appears that the AA sub has higher efficiency (ie less power required to drive it) and can go 4hz lower. I remember someone over at AVS doing some tests on the PA-120 and it did go down to 24hz as claimed before dropping off pretty fast, so I'll assume that most of the other specs for it are correct.

Might want to ask BD about the specs for the AA as I think he's done some major testing for it as well. *edit* 800 peak watt amp? Which is it?

[DonRSD]

Originally Posted by aramis109

Going by specs alone, it appears that the AA sub has higher efficiency (ie less power required to drive it) and can go 4hz lower. I remember someone over at AVS doing some tests on the PA-120 and it did go down to 24hz as claimed before dropping off pretty fast, so I'll assume that most of the other specs for it are correct.

Might want to ask BD about the specs for the AA as I think he's done some major testing for it as well. *edit* 800 peak watt amp? Which is it?

my decision is between the PA 120 & AA HD 12
im very torn between the 2.

if people are indeed getting the AA HD 12 for $150 i would buy 2 of them for $300 and call it a day.

but i have a feeling there is a reason the PA 120 (with less power & efficiency rating) costs more.

maybe im looking into it too much......idk

what have i done to myself

[Fors*]

Originally Posted by DonRSD

my decision is between the PA 120 & AA HD 12
im very torn between the 2.

if people are indeed getting the AA HD 12 for $150 i would buy 2 of them for $300 and call it a day.

but i have a feeling there is a reason the PA 120 (with less power & efficiency rating) costs more.

maybe im looking into it too much......idk

what have i done to myself

Don, I have been using this link in helping me make a determination of what sub I want to get as well. They are probably considered the "middle" to "higher" end, but it provides what are the best subs based on the best bang for the buck. It is just a guide of sorts, but I like to use it nonetheless. Maybe this will help you in some manner.....

http://www.tweakcityaudio.com/forum/showthread.php?t=11

[aramis109]

I have read that the PA-120 and the BIC sub listed at the bottom are made in the same manufacturing plant and have the same characteristics. I would consider them very comparable. The price he has listed makes me think he actually tried the PA-120 ($229 is how much the PA-120 is now).

*edit* Man, I do like that SVS PB10-NSD that comes out this next week! Problem is it's a little pricey to only be a little bit better than the PA-120 according to that list.

[DonRSD]

Originally Posted by forsberg21

Don, I have been using this link in helping me make a determination of what sub I want to get as well. They are probably considered the "middle" to "higher" end, but it provides what are the best subs based on the best bang for the buck. It is just a guide of sorts, but I like to use it nonetheless. Maybe this will help you in some manner.....

http://www.tweakcityaudio.com/forum/showthread.php?t=11

Originally Posted by aramis109

I have read that the PA-120 and the BIC sub listed at the bottom are made in the same manufacturing plant and have the same characteristics. I would consider them very comparable. The price he has listed makes me think he actually tried the PA-120 ($229 is how much the PA-120 is now).

couple of things

after looking at that forum, thank god this forum has 20 posts per page.

and BOTH the PA 120 & AA HD SUB are on amazon.com

this alone puts my confidence thru the roof as amazon.com is great with customer service.....if you buy thru them

now i just have to come to a decision as to which sub to get